Statement from Titans CEO Graham Annesley

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Gold Coast Titans CEO, Graham Annesley, has confirmed that players Greg Bird, David Taylor, and Kalifa Faifai Loa have today been issued with notices to appear in court in relation to drug offences.

"As a result, and consistent with the actions taken by the club on Friday, the three players charged today have also been stood down from all playing and training responsibilities pending their appearance in court on March 9", Mr Annesley said.

"Further, although the players are entitled to a presumption of innocence during the legal process ahead, given the serious nature of the charges against the players and the reputational damage caused to the club, we will require all of the charged players to appear before the Titans board to explain why action should not be taken by the club under the provisions of their playing contracts. This will occur when further factual information becomes available", Mr Annesley concluded.

The club continues to liaise closely with the NRL Integrity Unit regarding the progress of these matters.